Innovation is an engine for substantial, strong growth even as Japan enters a phase of population decline. The Abe Cabinet has made a commitment to develop "a long-term strategy initiative with an eye on the year 2025 (referred to as, "Innovation 25") for each field such as medicine, engineering and information technology, to be a new energy for Japanese society for the creation of innovation contributing to economic growth. On behalf of the Prime Minister, I am responsible for this commitment.

The "Innovation" that we are working towards is not a concept in the narrow sense of mere "Technical improvement" but "Reform/renewal" that broadly includes social systems and institutions.

In the future, the overall image for the long-term strategy initiation of "Shape and innovation that society should aim for in 2025" will be decided by the end of February and strategic roadmap for realization, for each field will be finalized by June.

Although it is a very difficult policy theme, I'd like to draw a picture for an aspiring future of "a life that will become so much more convenient, safe and comfortable " and clearly present a path to approach towards a better future by listening to the voices of the citizens.

The future of Japan shall be created by the combined power of government and the people. Let's work together!